Desertification is one of the main problems that humans face nowadays, and it’s a serious consequence of global warming. Desertification leads to a loss of land that’s suitable for raising food and a loss of natural water sources. This can lead to widespread famine and droughts. That’s why the United Nations decided to create the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought in 1995. The purpose of this holiday is to raise public attention about this problem, to let people know that solutions are possible, and to strengthen the UN Convention to Combat Desertification in countries that are facing desertification and drought.

The History of World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

This holiday was created by UN Resolution A/RES/49/115, which was passed on January 30, 1995. It was a holiday to help combat serious drought and desertification in areas that were experiencing—particularly in Africa. This holiday was a way to raise the public profile of the problem of drought and desertification so that steps could be taken to address them.

Observing World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

The best way for people to observe this holiday is by first spreading the word about it. It’s also a day on which people should think about how they may be contributing to global warming so they can take steps to reduce their carbon footprint. Organizations all over the world also observe this holiday and do so by distributing information about droughts/desertification, holding forums on the subject, or by working with governments to address this problem head-on.